Jon Jones has lined up his next appearance, but it won't be against Tom Aspinall

Jon Jones has lined up his next appearance, but it won't be against Tom Aspinall.

The UFC heavyweight champion hasn't fought since defending his title with a knockout of Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 in November. Since then, discussions about a unification bout with interim champion Tom Aspinall have been ongoing.

Dana White has assured fans that this fight is set to take place in 2025, yet the delay in announcing the matchup has led some to speculate whether Jones will skip over Aspinall entirely. On Friday, it was announced that UFC fan favorite Nate Diaz will be Jones' next opponent. However, Diaz, a legend in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions, will not be facing "Bones" in the octagon. Instead, the two will serve as rival coaches on a reality TV series called "ALF Reality," which is akin to Russia's version of "The Ultimate Fighter.

" As news of the Jones vs. Diaz matchup spread on social media, fans voiced their frustrations, accusing Jones of avoiding Aspinall. One fan remarked, "Bro, you have a belt to defend." Another added, "Jon is doing everything but fighting Aspinall." "Anything but fighting Aspinall. Anyone else would have been stripped by now," wrote another user. "Wait, Jon will fight Nate but not Aspinall??? Come on, Dana White, fire this guy," another fan expressed angrily. "Did not see this coming on my timeline," a fifth user commented, while another declared, "It's official: Jon Jones is ducking Tom Aspinall.

" Following the announcement, UFC CEO Dana White addressed the media's inquiries about the Jones vs. Aspinall matchup amidst mixed reports surrounding the highly anticipated champion vs. champion fight. "Everything you hear is nonsense until we confirm it," White asserted. "I've said it numerous times—this is the fight we want to make this year. I'm still very confident it will happen."